Travel can be stressful for everyone. And if you have a child with complex needs, a medical condition, or another form of special needs, that stress can be compounded. At Life Tech, we are focused on serving the healthcare needs of children and acting as a resource for parents. We’ve compiled a list of travel tips for parents of children with special needs. Use these tips to take some of the stress out of your travel schedule.  

Start Planning Early 

Unexpected travel can’t be helped sometimes. But if you’re planning a vacation, you should have plenty of time to create a travel plan. Whether you’re booking the trip yourself or using a travel agent, make sure the airline is aware that your child has special needs and that you will need to be seated together during any flights.  

Pack the Essentials 

You know what your child needs better than anyone. That means you need to pack everything they will need during the trip, and what they may need during the flight. This includes items like: 

  • Medical equipment 
  • Medication 
  • Toys 
  • Snacks 

If you will need any of these items during the flight, make sure they are included in your carry-on bag. 

Contact the TSA 

If you’re flying on your trip, it’s important to make contact with the TSA prior to your flight to notify them that you will be accompanying a child with special needs. This will allow you to have a smoother experience as you go through airport security, especially if your child uses a mobility device.  

Boarding Your Flight 

Make sure the agent at your gate is aware of your child’s needs. Most airlines allow early boarding for passengers with special needs or who use a mobility device. Once you have boarded the plane, make sure the flight attendants are aware of any particular special needs your child may have during the flight.  

If you have any questions, Life Tech is ready to help. Please contact us and we would be happy to assist you in any way we can.